Monday, April 18, 2016

Acceptability of Three Novel HIV Prevention Methods among Young Male and Transgender Female Sex Workers in Puerto Rico

Sex workers need
HIV-prevention methods they can control and incorporate easily in their work.
We studied the acceptability of three methods: HIV self-test use with clients,
oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and rectal microbicide gel.

Four male and
eight transgender female (TGF) sex workers in Puerto Rico completed a baseline
survey with a quantitative measure of likelihood of use. From them, one male
and four TGF also completed a 12-week study of rectal microbicide placebo gel
use prior to receptive anal intercourse with male clients and evaluated via
qualitative in-depth interviews and follow-up quantitative assessments how each
method could be incorporated into their work.

Most were interested in a rectal
microbicide gel and able to use it covertly with clients. Challenges to using
the HIV self-test with clients included the potential for both breach of
confidentiality and confronting violent situations. Participants also expressed
interest in oral PrEP, but raised concerns about side effects.